Activists Removed From NWSL Match Speak Out Amidst Department of Justice Review

Approximately 20 activists wearing XX-XY Athletics shirts were escorted from a Portland Thorns National Women's Soccer League (NWSL) match on Friday night. The activists, who were demonstrating in support of female-only sports, stated they were subjected to verbal abuse, and in some instances, struck by other fans, and had food and beer thrown at them. The group has filed police reports regarding the incident.

Amy Sousa, a women's sports activist with XX-XY Athletics, described the event on Tuesday's "The Faulkner Focus," stating that she and others were "bombarded with food, beer, flags and poles." She asserted that their removal was an act of "political theater," as their message was simply to "Save women's sports." Sousa expressed concern that such incidents impact girls at all levels, from elementary school to professional athletics.

Sousa indicated that security personnel informed them their XX-XY shirts did not violate any policies. However, she suspects the ejection was a measure to prevent potential altercations with other fans, suggesting that security "could not protect us adequately from the fans" who were reportedly harassing them. The reason for their removal, rather than that of those allegedly harassing them, remains unclear.

OutKick reporter Matt Calkins, who was credentialed for the match, reported experiencing similar aggression while attempting to document the confrontation. Calkins stated he was subjected to verbal insults, had his phone knocked from his hand, and had beer poured on him. A security guard also removed Calkins' credential during an interview with Sousa, though it was returned shortly after.

This is not the first instance of XX-XY Athletics supporters being removed from a Thorns game at Providence Park. A smaller group faced ejection in early September, with Sousa reporting that she was accused of being "transphobic" for her apparel.

Sousa emphasized that their activism is centered on "protecting the integrity of the category of sex" and defending the principles of Title IX, which she believes guarantees equal athletic opportunities, fair competition, and safety for girls based on sex. She cited a recent incident in Camas, Washington, where 12 girls reportedly walked off a cross-country course in protest of a male competitor. Sousa stated that adults need to advocate for young girls who are facing these issues in their competitions.

The Department of Justice has launched a review into the activists' ejection, examining potential First Amendment violations. Representatives for stadium security and the Portland Thorns' communications department did not immediately respond to requests for comment regarding the incident and the ejection policies.